The Office of the Superintendent of Insurance (OSI) urged New Mexico residents on May 7 to practice proper vehicle maintenance during Wildfire Awareness Month, warning that careless actions can unintentionally spark wildfires if precautions are not taken.
The reminder comes as dry conditions persist across the state, raising concerns about human-caused fire hazards. OSI said mechanical car failures and improper towing are leading causes of roadside fires, where a single spark or hot exhaust system can ignite a blaze quickly.
OSI recommended several safety techniques for motorists towing trailers, including crossing chains in an “X” pattern under the trailer tongue to catch the coupler if it detaches, twisting chains to keep them at least five inches above ground while ensuring they are not too tight for turns, checking that “S” hooks face away from the vehicle and toward the trailer, and using spark-resistant hoses or commercial guards to cover metal links. The agency also advised regular vehicle maintenance such as monitoring tire pressure—since underinflated tires can cause heat buildup and sparks if a rim strikes pavement—maintaining brakes to avoid metal-on-metal contact that could create sparks, and servicing wheel bearings on trailers.
Additionally, OSI reminded residents that all off-highway vehicles must be equipped with U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arrestors when operating on public lands. Owners should regularly clean these devices and ensure aftermarket parts meet requirements since most motocross bikes do not come with factory-installed arrestors.
“It can seem like a mundane task, but a single moment of maintenance – like checking your tire pressure or crossing your chains – is the kind of daily action that is needed to help prevent sparks and potential fire,” said Melissa Robertson, Bureau Chief, Property and Casualty Bureau at OSI. “And if you notice sparks or a fire starting from your vehicle, pull over immediately to an area clear of vegetation and call the fire department. In our arid climate, a single spark is all it takes to change a landscape forever.”
More information about wildfire preparedness resources is available through OSI’s website as well as New Mexico’s Forestry Division site.
